DAMIAN WATERS, who has been acting Director of the CBI in the north west for nearly a year, has been promoted permanently to the post.

Mr Waters, 34, had been standing in for his predecessor, Chris Clifford, who was seconded as acting director of the CBI in the West Midlands, to provide maternity cover.

Mr Clifford has now been appointed permanently to that post.

Mr Waters had previously spent four years as assistant regional director in the north west, a post which has now been filled by Sue Pyatt.

He will be the CBI's senior representative in the north west, liaising with companies in an area which stretches from the Scottish borders down to the Potteries, and lobbying on their behalf.

He said today: "The north west of England is one of the most vibrant and dynamic regions in Europe, but these are challenging times. I am delighted to be working with business communities in every part of the region to push for a favourable business climate that will allow our economy to thrive.

"I was born and raised in the north west. And I am totally committed to doing my utmost on behalf of the businesses and people here.

"I will be striving to make sure the north west's voice is heard at national and international levels."

Before joining the CBI he worked for six years for the Merseyside Education Business Partnership.

His role there was development officer, where he was involved in encouraging businesses and schools to work together.